Absurd reality: YouTube considers Balatro "gambling"
On March 19, YouTube implemented new rules regarding gambling-related content. And although they seem to be aimed at limiting real gambling, Balatro, an indie card builder game with roguelike elements that has nothing to do with real bets, donations or microtransactions, unexpectedly came under attack.
However, YouTube has begun to mark Balatro videos with an age limit of 18+ en masse. The algorithm believes that since standard poker cards are used in the game, then this is a priori "gambling". As a result, content creators lose monetization and reach, and the videos themselves become inaccessible to part of the audience.
Claims without explanation
According to the author of the Balatro University channel, about every sixth video falls under the age filter. Appeals against restrictions, as a rule, do not give any result - either they are ignored or instantly rejected without explanation. YouTube itself does not comment on the situation in any way.
The main problem is the visual similarity of the game with poker: 52 cards, combinations, jokers. But at the same time, there is no money, no bets, no in-game store in Balatro.
Community outraged by double standards
The reaction of players and bloggers is predictably harsh. People point to YouTube's absolute double policy. Videos where streamers play real slots, bet in online casinos, or open cases in CS remain available and even monetized.
But videos for Balatro, a harmless indie game, are banned in the category of "gambling-related content".
An illustrative case is PEGI. The European rating system initially assigned Balatro an 18+ rating, but later revised its decision, officially recognizing that the game does not belong to gambling. But YouTube seems to think otherwise.
What's next?
While YouTube has not given an official response, channel authors have found themselves in limbo. Some delete videos or hide them, fearing strikes and loss of the channel.
The community demands:
- Transparency in algorithms that determine "gambling content"
- Feedback on appeals
- A level playing field for indie games and real casino streams
The Balatro situation is another reminder of how haphazardly YouTube enforces its rules, sometimes harming those who play fair.